Ever regretted an emotional business decision? You're not alone.
For sales leaders and business owners, it's easy to get caught up in the heat of the moment. Whether it's a difficult conversation at work, an emotional business decision, or just the daily pressures of life, emotions can often cloud our judgment and lead to reactions we later regret.
In our last post, we talked about the power of pause—how taking a moment to breathe and reflect can help us regain control. Today, let's dive deeper into the idea of emotional distance. This is a critical practice, especially in business, to ensure we make wise, thoughtful decisions rather than acting on impulse or being ruled by our emotions.
Why Emotional Distance Matters for decision-making
Emotional distance doesn't mean becoming cold or detached. It's a skill top professionals use to give themselves space to reflect and respond in a more balanced, rational way. When we are too close to a situation, emotions can overwhelm our ability to think clearly. Whether it's anger, frustration, or excitement, these emotions can steer our actions in directions we wouldn't normally choose if we took a moment to step back.
In business (and to be honest, life), decisions need to be made with logic, compassion, and empathy, not with the heat of the moment guiding us. Emotional distance helps you gain perspective, and in turn, that perspective allows you to make decisions that are thoughtful, intentional, and beneficial in the long term.
How to Create Emotional Distance
Creating emotional distance doesn't mean ignoring your feelings or pretending they don't exist— it's about creating a boundary between your emotions and your decisions. Here are a few strategies to help you practice emotional distance:
- Pause and Reflect: Before responding to a heated email, an upset colleague, or a tough sales situation, take a moment to breathe. Reflect on what's happening internally before reacting. This allows you to assess whether your emotions are clouding your judgment.
- Step Back from the Situation: Sometimes, the best way to gain perspective is to physically remove yourself from the situation. If possible, step away for a moment—take a walk, go for a quick break, or even change your environment for a few minutes. This creates the necessary emotional distance and clears your mind to think more clearly.
- Consider All Perspectives: Emotional distance allows you to see things from multiple angles. Ask yourself: “What is the other person feeling right now? What are the consequences of my actions or decisions?” It's crucial to understand different perspectives before acting. Empathy doesn't require you to agree, but it allows you to understand, which is essential for making balanced decisions.
- Respond with Compassion, Not Reaction: Once you've gained some emotional distance, approach the situation with compassion and empathy. Responding from a calm, centered place allows you to address the situation thoughtfully without getting swept away by emotions.
- Use Logic to Ground Your Decision: Emotions are a natural response, but they aren't always the best guide when it comes to making sound decisions. Once you've gained emotional distance, use logic to inform your actions. What makes the most sense for your business and the people involved? What is the best long-term solution?
Where Do You Need Emotional Distance?
Think about areas in your business or life where emotions tend to run high. Is there a particular conversation, decision, or relationship where you often feel overwhelmed or reactive? Where do you need to step aside and create emotional distance so that you can respond with logic, compassion, and empathy?
It's easy to get lost in the moment and allow emotions to take control, but practicing emotional distance allows you to regain control and approach situations with clarity. Whether it's dealing with a challenging team member, handling tough feedback, or making a difficult business decision, the ability to step back and reflect gives you the power to make decisions that align with your values and goals.
Moving Forward with Clarity
Emotional distance is a skill that takes practice. By taking a step back, gaining perspective, and responding thoughtfully, you'll be able to navigate the complexities of business with wisdom and empathy. It's not about suppressing your emotions—it's about allowing them to inform you, not control you.
Next time you feel overwhelmed, remember to take a pause, step back, and approach the situation with a clear, balanced mind. By doing so, you'll make wiser decisions and foster a more peaceful, productive environment for everyone around you.
Want more insights on making smart business decisions?
Listen to our podcast, Referral Roadmap: Real Talk & Real Strategies, where we dive into not only business strategies but also how to stay grounded when emotions try to take over.
Let's keep practicing emotional distance and making wise, thoughtful choices in all areas of our lives. You are worth it!
